Pakistani expats attend a function celebrating the country’s Independence Day.

Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter

Community members of the Pakistani diaspora from all over the UAE have attended an evening full of fun and entertainment to celebrate the country’s 73rd Independence Day under the theme of ‘Hum Aik Hain’ (We are One).

The evening organised by the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD) in its premises situated in Oud Metha Dubai was attended by over 800 community members along with their families and different backgrounds who showed their patriotism for their motherland.

Majority of the community members wore their national attire, ‘shalwar & kameez’ while young children of all age groups painted their faces with the symbols of the national flag. Everyone was carrying flags which they waved throughout the evening.

Ghulam Dastagir, the newly appointed ambassador of Pakistan to the United Arab Emirates, was the chief guest of the event. He was accompanied by Ahmed Amjad Ali, Counsel General and several other senior dignitaries.

Addressing the community for the first time since his posting Ambassador Dastagir said, “The gathering today is a testimony to the commitment and passion of the expat Pakistanis towards its country and the Independence Day celebrations are always special.”

 He further said that he was grateful to the association for inviting him today and letting him have a glimpse of the colourful activities of the community.

The Ambassador assured his complete support to every ordinary expat Pakistani and urged that “together we can take Pakistan to heights of glory.”

Dr Faisel Ikram, President PAD, in his address to the community said that we are all representatives of Pakistan and should leave a positive image wherever we go.

“Pakistan is our identity and UAE is our second home, we should make an effort to work in a manner that benefits both the countries. The upcoming project of Pakistan Centre is a monument of pride and we should all participate in making it a success,” said Dr Ikram.

The event held at Pakistan Auditorium was made possible by the culture team of PAD. It had national songs, tableaux and cultural performances from schoolchildren, art exhibition, magic shows, and quizzes amongst many other activities. Noman Ali Shah, a renowned singer for national songs, came all the way from Pakistan to perform for the community.